Pan Head
Direct Answer
Pan Head screws (standardized under ISO 7045 and DIN 7985) feature a low-profile rounded top, vertical cylindrical outer sidewalls, and a flat horizontal bottom bearing surface. Providing clean aesthetics and strong clamping force without cutting into workpiece materials, it is the most common machine screw head in electronics and appliance assembly.
Source: ISO 7045 / DIN 7985 / ASME B18.6.3
Specs
| Standard Specifications | ISO 7045 / DIN 7985 / ASME B18.6.3 |
| Head Top Geometry | Slightly domed / curved low-profile top surface |
| Outer Edge Geometry | Vertical cylindrical sidewalls with smooth radiused top transition |
| Bearing Surface Profile | 100% Flat horizontal bearing surface |
| Recess Recesses Supported | Phillips (PH), Pozidriv (PZ), Torx (TX), Slotted |
| Countersinking Required | No (Mounts completely proud of the workpiece surface) |
| Primary Applications | Consumer electronics, sheet metal electrical enclosures, general machinery |
Flat Bearing Area and Clamping Force
The defining engineering advantage of the pan head is its flat horizontal underside. Unlike countersunk screws that exert radial outward wedging force, a pan head distributes all clamping force parallel to the screw shank. This makes it ideal for securing plastics, sheet metal, and printed circuit boards without cracking the material.
Pan Head vs Round Head
While traditional 'Round Head' screws feature a tall, full semi-spherical dome, the modern Pan Head has a lower profile and larger bearing diameter, providing superior surface contact and lower vertical clearance.